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Protect pets from the heat with these easy tips

Public safety and animal control officials urge residents to never risk their animal’s safety by leaving them in a locked car--even with the windows cracked. Every year, dogs suffer and die when their guardians make the mistake of leaving them in a parked car.

On a 78-degree day, the temperature inside a parked car can soar to between 100 and 120 degrees in just minutes, and on a 90-degree day, the interior temperature can reach as high as 160 degrees in less than 10 minutes. That can be a deathtrap for an innocent dog.

When the weather heats up, Lakewood’s animal control provider SEAACA urges us not to forget about taking care of our four-legged family members. We keep ourselves well hydrated when exposed to heat and sunshine, and we should remember to do the same for our pets.

Pets should have plenty of fresh water on hand, and when outside they should also have a shady refuge to go to. Each year, SEAACA responds to numerous heat-related complaints, usually of dogs locked in hot cars in shopping center parking lots.

If you see an animal locked inside a hot car, call 9-1-1 immediately. Police will contact SEAACA or another appropriate animal rescue agency. For additional questions regarding animal control, call SEAACA at 562-803-3301 or www.seaaca.org.